10849130

Method and Apparatus for Performing LTE Sl Communication Based on Dci

PublishedNovember 24, 2020
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
15 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A method for a first apparatus to perform long-term evolution (LTE) sidelink (SL) communication through downlink control information (DCI), the method comprising: receiving DCI from a new radio (NR) base station through a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH); obtaining a first timing offset based on the DCI; and performing LTE SL communication based on the first timing offset, wherein a minimum value of the first timing offset is determined based on a minimum latency between an NR module for NR communication and an LTE module for LTE communication of the first apparatus.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving synchronization between LTE sidelink (SL) communication and NR (New Radio) communication in a dual-mode device. The problem addressed is the timing misalignment between LTE SL and NR modules within the same apparatus, which can cause communication delays or failures. The solution involves using downlink control information (DCI) from an NR base station to coordinate LTE SL communication timing. The method includes receiving DCI via a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), extracting a timing offset from the DCI, and adjusting LTE SL communication based on this offset. The timing offset ensures proper synchronization between the NR and LTE modules, with its minimum value determined by the minimum latency between these modules. This approach enables efficient coexistence of LTE SL and NR communication in dual-mode devices, reducing interference and improving reliability. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where devices must maintain synchronized communication across different wireless standards.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the minimum latency indicates a minimum value of a time taken from when the DCI is received by the NR module to when the DCI is converted into LTE SL DCI by the first apparatus and the LTE SL DCI is transmitted by the first apparatus and is received by the LTE module.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving latency in device-to-device (D2D) communication between New Radio (NR) and Long-Term Evolution (LTE) modules. The problem addressed is the delay in converting NR downlink control information (DCI) into LTE sidelink (SL) DCI and transmitting it to an LTE module, which can degrade performance in hybrid NR-LTE D2D networks. The method involves determining a minimum latency for the conversion and transmission process. The minimum latency defines the shortest acceptable time from when the NR module receives the DCI to when the converted LTE SL DCI is received by the LTE module. This ensures timely delivery of control information between the modules, reducing delays in D2D communication. The method may also include adjusting transmission parameters or scheduling to meet the minimum latency requirement, optimizing the conversion process, or prioritizing critical DCI to minimize latency further. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where low-latency communication is essential, such as vehicle-to-everything (V2X) applications or industrial automation. By enforcing a minimum latency threshold, the system ensures reliable and efficient D2D communication across heterogeneous NR and LTE networks.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the minimum latency is based on apparatus capability of the first apparatus.

Plain English Translation

A method for optimizing communication latency in a networked system involves determining a minimum latency requirement for data transmission between a first apparatus and a second apparatus. The minimum latency is dynamically adjusted based on the capabilities of the first apparatus, such as processing speed, bandwidth, or other performance metrics. This adjustment ensures that the data transmission adheres to the apparatus's operational limits while maintaining efficient communication. The method may also include monitoring the apparatus's performance to update the minimum latency in real-time, allowing for adaptive adjustments to changing conditions. By dynamically setting the minimum latency according to the first apparatus's capabilities, the system avoids overloading the apparatus while ensuring timely data delivery. This approach is particularly useful in systems where apparatus performance varies, such as in IoT networks or distributed computing environments, where maintaining optimal latency is critical for system efficiency and reliability.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising: transmitting information on the minimum latency to the NR base station.

Plain English Translation

A method for optimizing network performance in a wireless communication system, particularly in scenarios involving non-terrestrial networks (NTN) such as satellite communications, addresses the challenge of managing latency in data transmission. The method involves determining a minimum latency required for a communication link between a user equipment (UE) and a base station, such as an NR (New Radio) base station, to ensure reliable and efficient data transfer. This minimum latency is calculated based on factors like signal propagation delays, processing times, and network conditions. The method further includes transmitting this minimum latency information to the NR base station, enabling the base station to adjust its scheduling and resource allocation strategies accordingly. By providing the base station with this latency data, the system can optimize transmission timings, reduce packet losses, and improve overall network efficiency. This approach is particularly useful in NTN environments where latency variations due to orbital mechanics and signal propagation can significantly impact performance. The method ensures that the base station has the necessary information to dynamically adapt to changing latency conditions, enhancing the reliability and quality of service for users connected to the network.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first timing offset is equal to or greater than the minimum latency.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for optimizing timing offsets in communication networks to reduce latency and improve synchronization. The invention addresses the problem of inefficient timing adjustments in network communications, which can lead to delays, packet loss, or synchronization errors. The method involves determining a first timing offset for a communication device based on a minimum latency requirement, ensuring that the offset is equal to or greater than this minimum latency to maintain reliable data transmission. The system may also include a second timing offset for another communication device, where the second offset is adjusted relative to the first to maintain synchronization between devices. The method further involves dynamically adjusting these offsets in response to changes in network conditions or device performance to optimize communication efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in time-sensitive applications such as industrial automation, financial transactions, or real-time data streaming, where precise timing is critical. By ensuring that timing offsets meet or exceed minimum latency thresholds, the system prevents data transmission errors and improves overall network reliability.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the LTE SL communication is performed based on information on LTE SL communication comprised in the DCI.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving the efficiency and reliability of LTE (Long-Term Evolution) sidelink (SL) communication. The problem addressed is the need for more effective control and coordination of direct device-to-device (D2D) communication in LTE networks, particularly in scenarios where devices communicate without relying on a central base station. The invention describes a method for performing LTE sidelink communication based on information included in Downlink Control Information (DCI). The DCI, typically transmitted from a base station to a user equipment (UE), contains control signaling that facilitates the sidelink communication between devices. This includes parameters such as resource allocation, timing, and modulation schemes, which are used to optimize the sidelink transmission. By embedding sidelink communication details within the DCI, the method ensures that devices can efficiently coordinate their direct communication while maintaining synchronization with the broader LTE network. The method involves a base station transmitting DCI that includes specific instructions for sidelink communication, such as resource blocks, transmission power levels, and scheduling details. The receiving UE then uses this information to establish or adjust its sidelink communication with another device. This approach reduces signaling overhead and improves coordination, particularly in scenarios like vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, where low latency and high reliability are critical. The invention enhances the efficiency of LTE sidelink operations by leveraging existing DCI mechanisms, ensuring seamless integration with the broader LTE framework.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the information on the LTE SL communication comprises a second timing offset related to the LTE SL communication, and the second timing offset is added at a time after a lapse of the first timing offset from a time when the NR module receives the DCI as a starting point.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing timing offsets in dual-connectivity scenarios involving Long-Term Evolution (LTE) sidelink (SL) and New Radio (NR) communications. The problem addressed is ensuring proper synchronization between LTE SL and NR communications when a device operates in a dual-connectivity mode, where timing misalignment can lead to interference or communication failures. The method involves a device with both LTE and NR modules. The NR module receives downlink control information (DCI) from a base station, which includes a first timing offset for scheduling NR communication. The device then adjusts the timing of LTE SL communication by applying a second timing offset, which is added after the first timing offset has elapsed from the moment the NR module receives the DCI. This ensures that the LTE SL communication is properly synchronized with the NR communication, preventing conflicts and maintaining reliable data transmission. The second timing offset is specifically designed to account for the delay introduced by the first timing offset, allowing the device to coordinate its LTE SL transmissions or receptions without overlapping with NR operations. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where the device must switch between different radio access technologies while maintaining seamless communication. The method ensures that timing adjustments are applied in a coordinated manner, reducing the risk of interference and improving overall system efficiency.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the second timing offset is a timing offset related to activation of LTE semi-persistent scheduling (SPS).

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving timing synchronization in LTE networks. The problem addressed is ensuring accurate timing for semi-persistent scheduling (SPS) in LTE, which is a feature used to allocate resources periodically without repeated signaling. The invention describes a method for adjusting timing offsets to optimize SPS activation. The method involves determining a first timing offset for initial resource allocation and then applying a second timing offset specifically for SPS activation. The second timing offset is calculated based on the SPS configuration, ensuring that the allocated resources align correctly with the periodic scheduling intervals. This adjustment prevents timing misalignment that could lead to data transmission errors or inefficient resource usage. The method may also include compensating for propagation delays or other timing variations in the network. By dynamically adjusting the timing offsets, the invention enhances the reliability and efficiency of SPS in LTE systems, reducing signaling overhead and improving data throughput. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where devices move between different network cells or experience varying channel conditions.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the performing of the LTE SL communication comprises determining a time to determine whether to activate the LTE SPS based on a time after a lapse of the first timing offset and the second timing offset from the time when the NR module receives the DCI and determining whether to activate the LTE SPS at the time to determine whether to activate the LTE SPS.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing communication between devices using Long-Term Evolution (LTE) sidelink (SL) and New Radio (NR) modules. The problem addressed is the coordination between LTE SL communication and NR-based signaling, particularly when determining whether to activate Semi-Persistent Scheduling (SPS) in LTE SL based on timing offsets from received Downlink Control Information (DCI) in NR. The method involves an NR module receiving DCI, which triggers a timing process for LTE SL communication. A first timing offset and a second timing offset are defined relative to the DCI reception time. The method determines a specific time to evaluate whether to activate LTE SPS by considering the lapse of these timing offsets. At this determined time, the system assesses whether to activate LTE SPS, enabling efficient coordination between NR signaling and LTE SL operations. This ensures proper scheduling and resource allocation in heterogeneous wireless networks where both LTE and NR technologies are used. The approach optimizes communication efficiency by dynamically adjusting LTE SPS activation based on NR signaling, reducing latency and improving reliability in device-to-device or vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The method of claim 9 , wherein the performing of the LTE SL communication further comprises determining an LTE SL resource related to the LTE SPS based on a determination that the LTE SPS is activated.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving device-to-device (D2D) communication in LTE networks. The problem addressed is efficient resource allocation for sidelink (SL) communication when semi-persistent scheduling (SPS) is activated, ensuring reliable and timely data transmission between devices without unnecessary signaling overhead. The method involves performing LTE sidelink communication between devices, where the communication is managed using LTE SPS. When SPS is activated, the method determines an LTE SL resource specifically allocated for SPS-based communication. This ensures that devices can use pre-configured resources for D2D communication without requiring dynamic scheduling for each transmission, reducing latency and signaling load. The method also includes monitoring for SPS activation and dynamically adjusting resource allocation accordingly. This approach optimizes resource utilization while maintaining low-latency communication in scenarios where devices frequently exchange data, such as in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) or public safety applications. The solution enhances efficiency by leveraging SPS for predictable, periodic data transmissions, minimizing the need for real-time scheduling requests.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The method of claim 9 , wherein the performing of the LTE SL communication further comprises determining an LTE SL resource to which the LTE SPS is not applied based on the determination that the LTE SPS is deactivated.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving device-to-device (D2D) communication in LTE networks when Semi-Persistent Scheduling (SPS) is deactivated. SPS is a technique that allocates resources periodically to reduce signaling overhead, but when deactivated, it can disrupt D2D communication if not properly managed. The method involves managing LTE Sidelink (SL) communication when SPS is deactivated. First, a device detects that LTE SPS has been deactivated. Then, it identifies LTE SL resources that were previously allocated under SPS but are no longer valid. The device determines which LTE SL resources should no longer be used for communication because they were tied to the now-deactivated SPS. This ensures that the device does not attempt to use resources that are no longer available, preventing communication failures. The method helps maintain reliable D2D communication by dynamically adjusting resource usage when SPS is turned off, avoiding conflicts and ensuring efficient resource allocation. This is particularly useful in scenarios where SPS is temporarily disabled, such as during network congestion or when switching between different communication modes.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. A first apparatus for performing sidelink (SL) communication through downlink control information (DCI), the first apparatus comprising: at least one memory to store instructions; at least one transceiver; and at least one processor to connect the at least one memory and the at least one transceiver, wherein the at least one processor controls the at least one transceiver to receive DCI from a new radio (NR) NR base station through a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), obtains a first timing offset based on the DCI, and performs LTE SL communication based on the first timing offset, and a minimum value of the first timing offset is determined based on a minimum latency between an NR module for NR communication and an LTE module for LTE communication of the first apparatus.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving sidelink (SL) communication between devices using downlink control information (DCI) from a New Radio (NR) base station. The problem addressed is the coordination of timing between NR and LTE modules within a device to enable efficient SL communication with minimal latency. The apparatus includes memory, a transceiver, and a processor. The processor receives DCI from an NR base station via a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH). The DCI includes a timing offset that determines when the device should perform LTE SL communication. The timing offset ensures synchronization between the NR and LTE modules, with its minimum value set based on the minimum latency between these modules. This ensures that the device can switch between NR and LTE operations without delays, optimizing SL communication performance. The transceiver handles the transmission and reception of signals, while the processor manages the timing and coordination between the modules. This approach enhances the efficiency and reliability of SL communication in heterogeneous networks where NR and LTE coexist.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The first apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the at least one processor comprises the NR module for NR communication of the first apparatus and the LTE module for LTE communication of the first apparatus, and the minimum latency indicates a minimum value of a time taken from when the DCI is received by the NR module to when the DCI is converted into LTE SL DCI by the first apparatus and the LTE SL DCI is transmitted by the first apparatus and is received by the LTE module.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing latency reduction in dual-connectivity scenarios where a device communicates using both New Radio (NR) and Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technologies. The problem solved is the delay introduced when converting Downlink Control Information (DCI) received via NR into LTE Sidelink (SL) DCI for transmission over LTE. The invention describes an apparatus with at least one processor that includes an NR module for NR communication and an LTE module for LTE communication. The processor ensures that the time taken from receiving NR DCI to converting it into LTE SL DCI and transmitting it via LTE is minimized. This conversion process must meet a specified minimum latency requirement, ensuring efficient and timely communication between the NR and LTE modules. The apparatus optimizes the handoff between these communication technologies, reducing delays in data transmission and improving overall system performance in heterogeneous network environments. The solution is particularly relevant for devices operating in dual-connectivity modes, where seamless and low-latency communication between different radio access technologies is critical.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The first apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the minimum latency is based on apparatus capability of the first apparatus.

Plain English Translation

A system for managing data transmission in a wireless communication network addresses the challenge of optimizing latency and resource allocation in dynamic environments. The system includes a first apparatus configured to determine a minimum latency for transmitting data to a second apparatus, where the minimum latency is based on the apparatus capability of the first apparatus. The apparatus capability may include processing speed, buffer capacity, or other performance metrics that influence data handling efficiency. The system further includes a controller that adjusts transmission parameters, such as modulation schemes or scheduling policies, to ensure data is transmitted within the determined minimum latency while maintaining network stability. The second apparatus receives the data and may provide feedback to the first apparatus to refine latency calculations. This approach improves real-time data delivery in applications like autonomous vehicles, industrial automation, or high-frequency trading, where low-latency communication is critical. The system dynamically adapts to varying network conditions and device capabilities, ensuring efficient use of available resources while meeting latency requirements.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. An apparatus for controlling a first user equipment (UE), the apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one computer memory that is connected to be executable by the at least one processor and stores instructions, wherein, when the at least one processor executes the instructions, the first UE receives downlink control information (DCI) from an NR base station through a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), obtains a first timing offset based on the DCI, and performs LTE SL communication based on the first timing offset, and wherein a minimum value of the first timing offset is determined based on a minimum latency between a new radio (NR) module for NR communication and an LTE module for LTE communication of the first UE.

Plain English Translation

This apparatus relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing timing synchronization challenges between New Radio (NR) and Long-Term Evolution (LTE) modules in user equipment (UE) supporting both technologies. The problem arises from the need to coordinate communication timings between NR and LTE modules to ensure efficient and reliable data transmission, particularly in scenarios where the UE engages in NR downlink control and LTE sidelink (SL) communication. The apparatus includes at least one processor and a connected computer memory storing executable instructions. When executed, the instructions enable the UE to receive downlink control information (DCI) from an NR base station via a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH). The UE then extracts a timing offset from the DCI, which dictates the scheduling of LTE SL communication. The timing offset ensures proper synchronization between the NR and LTE modules, with its minimum value determined by the minimum latency between these modules. This latency accounts for the time required for signal processing and data transfer between the NR and LTE modules, ensuring that the UE can switch between NR and LTE operations without delays or conflicts. The apparatus thus optimizes communication efficiency and reliability in dual-mode UEs by dynamically adjusting timing based on module-specific latency constraints.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

November 24, 2020

Inventors

Seungmin LEE
Hanbyul SEO

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METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING LTE SL COMMUNICATION BASED ON DCI